January 1 - February 10, 2024 Let Me Play the Buffoon Series | MONKEY BUSINESS, DAY AT THE RACES, MODERN TIMES, NACHO LIBRE, “School for Postmen,” THE PINK PANTHER, DRUNKEN MASTER, THE NAVIGATOR, THE FRESHMAN Los Feliz 3
In the early days of cinema, buffoonery found its place on the silver screen, bringing laughter and joy to audiences worldwide. Starting with our annual Marx Brothers celebration, MONKEY BUSINESS and A DAY AT THE RACES exemplify the art of buffoonery with their trademark zaniness, witty banter and impeccable comedic timing. Charlie Chaplin’s MODERN TIMES introduces us to the Tramp, a lovable and bumbling character navigating the challenges of industrialization. Silent film legend Buster Keaton, known for his deadpan expression and incredible physical stunts, brings us THE NAVIGATOR. In this maritime comedy, Keaton plays a wealthy but clueless young man who finds himself adrift on a deserted ocean liner. 100 years later, the film is a testament to Keaton’s genius in combining physicality with subtle humor.THE FRESHMAN stars the legendary Harold Lloyd as a college freshman seeking popularity through misguided antics and remains a timeless portrayal of the humorous struggles of fitting in. Several decades later, enter the suave and clueless Inspector Jacques Clouseau, portrayed by the iconic Peter Sellers in THE PINK PANTHER. Clouseau’s ineptitude and slapstick antics turn a routine investigation into a chaotic and uproarious escapade. Jackie Chan combines martial arts prowess with comedic clumsiness in DRUNKEN MASTER, creating a unique blend of action and humor that solidifies his place as a global cinematic buffoon. Fast forward to the 21st century, Jack Black buffoons in the modern cult classic, NACHO LIBRE goes from monk turned lucha libre wrestler with infectious energy and hijinks. In exploring these films, it becomes evident that buffoonery is a versatile and enduring element of cinema. Whether through silent comedians, slapstick legends, or modern-day stars, the art of making audiences laugh through the absurd and the comical has left an indelible mark on the history of film. These cinematic buffoons continue to bring joy to audiences, proving that laughter is indeed timeless.